📰 Humphreys Heaps Praise on Dufty Ahead of Dragons Clash

Jamie Humphreys has nothing but praise for incoming fullback Matt Dufty as the Club looks to build on combinations that proved formidable in the pre-season.

Matthew Dufty Set for Dragons Return

Matthew Dufty appears set to make his NRL return against his former club this weekend, with Jamie Humphreys praising the fullback's journey back to the top grade. Dufty has been training at fullback and is in strong form in New South Wales Cup after four years away from first grade.

"I love Duff, he's a great guy firstly," Humphreys said. "I was lucky enough to play the first couple of games in the trials with him which was really cool, sort of as the seven and him at the back, so got a few good reps in there which was really awesome and he's been in great form in New South Wales Cup as well. He's been killing it."

The halfback said the team appreciates Dufty’s journey and the work he has put in to earn another opportunity. The fact that his likely return comes against the Dragons, where he began his career, adds an extra element to the story. Dufty’s inclusion would allow the Club to slot him into the hole left by Jye Gray while keeping Latrell Mitchell in the centres, maintaining the combination on the edge.

Dragons Clash and Building Combinations

Humphreys acknowledged that the Dragons will be desperate when the two sides meet this weekend, but said South Sydney need to focus on playing their own brand of football rather than reacting to the opposition's situation.

The halfback has been working on building his combination with Dufty throughout training this season, having played alongside him in the first two trial matches. He emphasised the importance of spine communication and being on the same page, particularly if they get the opportunity to partner in an NRL fixture this week.

Competition Driving Standards

Despite a disrupted start to his own season, Humphreys said he is relishing being back on the field and representing the Club. The competition for spots across the squad, including at halfback with Ashton Ward currently sidelined through injury, is creating a healthy environment that lifts everyone's performance.

The 2026 campaign has seen much better availability compared to last season, with the majority of the squad on deck throughout the pre-season. That continuity has allowed the team to work on combinations and build depth across all positions, creating genuine competition that Humphreys believes makes him a better player.

Contract Situation and Future Focus

When asked about his contract situation, Humphreys made clear his priority remains week-to-week performance rather than looking too far ahead. The halfback has played just three games this year and said his focus is on delivering consistent football and doing his best for South Sydney every opportunity he gets.

"I love this club, I love being here, I love the fans, I love representing the history of this club and what that means to put on the South Sydney number seven jersey," he said. "It's a big job to fill and it's one that I feel like I'm getting more comfortable in every week. Still sort of new in my career and yeah, feeling really comfortable and growing in confidence each week and yeah, long-term I'd love to stay here."

Humphreys said he is comfortable with where he sits and has good people helping him navigate the situation. Rather than being distracted by outside noise, he views the uncertainty as extra motivation each week.

The halfback also spoke about the excitement of linking up with the Club's strike weapons, including Cameron Murray, Cody Walker, David Fifita, Latrell Mitchell and Alex Johnston. Having Murray back on the field after missing significant time last season has been particularly important, with the lock playing a crucial role in the team's shape and taking defenders off Humphreys to create opportunities down the line.